Plans to build 140 new homes on Dancing Hill, at the western edge of North Petherton, have successfully passed their first planning stage. Bloor Homes South West submitted a screening request in June for this development near the Globe Inn, which Somerset Council has now approved. Importantly, the council determined that a detailed environmental impact assessment is not required before a formal planning application can proceed.
Bloor Homes, which is also seeking approval for 225 homes on Rhode Lane in Bridgwater, intends to present detailed proposals early next year. The new housing will be primarily located in the central area of the site, between High Street and Hulkshay Farm. The northern and southern sections will be dedicated to attenuation basins and public open spaces.
To ensure safe access, the current triangular junction where Dancing Lane, High Street, and North Street converge will be redesigned. High Street will be rerouted through the site, connecting to a new junction near Whiting Lane. Additionally, a dedicated walking and cycling route will traverse the southern sector, linking Hulkshay Lane and Watery Lane, thus improving the existing public right of way.
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Aligning with council policy, 30 percent of the homes—approximately 42 units—will be affordable housing. Mark Richards, planning consultant for Greenslade Taylor Hunt representing the developer, emphasized the project’s commitment to public open space, sustainable drainage, habitat enhancement, and infrastructure.
He noted that the mix of housing types will reflect local demand and that the scale of the development is compatible with the existing local highway network. While some visual impact is expected, it is typical for a development of this size and is considered localized. Overall, the project is not anticipated to cause significant environmental effects given the site’s characteristics and the surrounding environment.
North Petherton has experienced notable housing growth recently, with major new estates such as Royal View (130 homes), Chaucer’s Meadow (72 homes), and Batts Meadow (33 homes) at its southern edge. Several other developments are also under consideration, including plans for 190 homes east of Newton Road by Gladman Developments and 175 homes west of Taunton Road by North Petherton LVA LLP.
At the northern end of the town, West of England Developments (Taunton) Ltd. has proposed 64 homes south of Park Lane, alongside a new medical center, scout hut, and junior cricket pitch. These local projects complement the Bridgwater Gateway site, which encompasses 511 homes near junction 24 of the M5 within North Petherton parish.
The council’s decision to approve the screening request was made under delegated powers by planning officers. Principal planning officer Ellena Fletcher commented that the development is unlikely to have significant environmental effects. However, she clarified that this approval does not indicate support or guarantee planning permission and does not prejudice future decisions. The screening opinion does not confirm that the development complies with all planning policies or that its impacts are acceptable in planning terms.
A formal planning application is expected to be submitted early in the new year.